2026 Budget: 'It must be realistic and focused on productive investment'

The Colombian-American Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAC) called on the government and Congress to ensure that the new national budget, currently being processed by the legislature, reflects a responsible fiscal policy, supported by verifiable revenue and aimed at strengthening productive investment that drives economic growth and the well-being of Colombians.

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María Claudia Lacouture, president of Amcham Colombia, indicated that the proposed budget contemplates increased revenue and operating expenses to maintain the State's operations, but lacks a sufficient focus on productive investment that drives sustainable development.

“A budget must be coherent and austere, based on real and verifiable revenues. Spending cannot be projected without a clear basis for where the resources will come from. This only increases fiscal uncertainty and limits the country's ability to grow sustainably,” Lacouture noted.

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Amcham Colombia warned that only about 5% of the budget is allocated to productive investment, an insufficient level to boost economic growth and competitiveness. "This type of investment is key because it has a dual impact: it generates immediate employment and multiplies benefits for society," Lacouture added.

Examples of this include investments in road infrastructure, education, and health care. A highway not only creates jobs during its construction, but also reduces logistics costs and improves the country's competitiveness. A school creates growth opportunities for new generations, and a strengthened health care system improves citizens' quality of life and productivity.

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In this regard, Amcham Colombia reiterated the importance of the budget incorporating austerity in spending, fiscal responsibility, and greater allocation toward productive projects that multiply benefits and generate sustainable income for Colombian families.

"The priority must be a realistic budget, with verifiable revenue and focused on investment that produces well-being and development. Only in this way can we guarantee confidence, stability, and progress for Colombia," concluded the President of Amcham Colombia.